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| Red Lake Net News Michael Barrett P. O. Box 80 Redby, MN 56670 Telephone: 218-679-5995 |
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| The following letters and emails were received by rlnn.com. On behalf of the Red Lake Nation, we thank you all sincerely for your thoughts, prayers, kindness and concerns. |
| We wish to extend our deepest sympathy to your people after this great loss you have experienced. May GOD be with all of you. Mr. & Mrs. G. Royce Florissant, MO |
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| Hi; I would like to express my condolences to the community of Red Lake. To all the families that lost loved ones and to all the families that now have to help their children live with the memories of their tragic experience. To the family of the child (Jeff) that ended his pain and suffering in this tragedy, my thoughts and prayers go out to you. We say our children are special gifts from the Creator, but yet we forget that they need us to help them and take care of them. We adults are too caught up in our own struggles to notice that our children are crying out for help and are looking for someone to show them the way. It is too bad that this had to happen. The pictures of Jeff show a beautiful young man that could have been so much more. To the students of Red Lake High School, please find it in your heart to forgive this young man for the harm he has done to you and to your school, community and families. Our teachings talk about the seven sacred gifts. Love, Respect, Bravery, Humility, Honesty, Truth, and Wisdom are the seven sacred gifts. I would like to share with you a teaching that was shared with me when I began my healing journey. I was told by an elder that in order for me to start healing and learning a good way of life, that I had to learn to live by these teachings, but I was told that before I could do that I had to learn the hidden one. Our Ojibway culture teaches us that everything is done in 4's and is part of the great circle of life. When you try to put the seven teachings in this way, they don't fit properly. that is because before we can move forward and have a good life, we have to learn to forgive. Forgive ourselves, our parents, our ancestors, our neighbours, our community, and every living being. IF WE CAN NOT FORGIVE, WE CANNOT LIVE A GOOD LIFE. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. Joanne Bruyere |
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| Hi Mike - Thanks for sending this out. There are many of us who are greiving for all those affected by this tragedy. Monte and Delores were at the Capitol when it happened, so I was able to reach out to them, but there are so many other people I keep thinking about and cannot touch. I will be sending something, but let people know that love and prayers are being directed their way as well as money. Nancy Larson, Executive Director Minnesota Association of Small Cities 21950 CSAH #4 Dassel, MN 55325 phone & fax: 320-275-3130 cell phone: 612-961-5408 |
| To everyone in Red Lake, you have my deepest sympathy, and my prayers. May, everyone pull together, and be the family that most Native American communities are. I myself am Chippewa, having grown up on the White Earth reservation, I know only to well how close we are to each other. My Deepest regret to the loss of such innocent lives can not be expressed by meer word; or the loss of innocence the survivors must go through, may God be with you all, Malena J Rock |
| To the Ojibwe Community of Red Lake... We are so profoundly saddened by the terrible tragedy visited upon the Ojibwe community of Red Lake, and beyond. Our hearts and deepest condolences go out to our Brothers and Sisters there and all of Turtle Island. Such loss diminishes all our Human Family. May all of us renew consciousness to an awakened sense of awareness and reach out to all who may be in the deepest loneliness of despair. Even more, may we ALL resolve to exert all energy to actively advocate for the alleviation of all conditions, actively or passively imposed, that give rise to such despair and tragedy. With heartfelt grief, and prayers for Healing for all the families and the Community. May the Spirit that unites us all fill and sustain you, now and forever. Deepest Healing Peace... Beverley Britton Lifeline Network for Peace The Children's Peace Quilt Alexandria, Va |
| Nindinawemaaganidog: My family cannot express the hurt and sorrow we share with our fellow Anishinaabeg. We do want you to know that you will be in our thoughts and prayers. Weweni, niijanishinaabeg. Bob Jourdain family Cass Lake |
| As an 20+ year high school educator on and off the reservation I see an alarming trend toward youth who cannot believe in their future and use of crystal methamphetamine which escalates their thoughts to grandiose and often violent levels leading them to murderous acts often toward family. Is Jeff such a young man? I hope an educational push will prevail toward saving our young people which must result from such worldwide attention. My prayers reach out for your people. Laurie Morris - Boulder Creek, California |
| March 24, 2005 The Honorable Floyd Jourdain, Jr. Chairman Red Lake Tribal Council Red Lake Nation Box 550 Red Lake, Minn. 56671 Esteemed Chairman Jourdain: Permit this letter to serve as our modest effort to communicate to you and all of the sisters and brothers of the Red Lake Nation our sincere condolences for the great loss and pain endured by the people. Receive our prayers and reflections and please consider calling upon us at any time if you feel we might prove of assistance. Pain and tragedy can cause a desire to circle up and close off others not directly affected. We have been moved by your public statements and your leadership. Already the media puts forth stories pointing fingers about “who could have or should have known.” Such attitudes are divisive and dishonest. All of our communities do suffer violence, and in all communities many, many individuals and organizations share the pain and loss of the people of the Red Lake Nation. We know that the people will come together and move forward, and in so doing, offer the entire U.S. and the world a model of integrity, love, forgiveness and courage. We close with a long and firm embrace. Fraternally, Roy D. Wilson Institute for Community Leadership |
| To the people, Know that the Annashnaabeg where ever we are share your sorrow and hold you in our thoughts and prayers. May the Creator be with you at this time. Helen Mertz Ottawa, On.,Canada (Wikwemikong First Nation) |
| I just wanted to say that my heart goes out to all the family, friends and teachers affected by this tragedy. As a fellow Indian, this hurts my heart even more. All will be in my thoughts and hopes for a successful recovery for those wounded. With Best Wishes, Amy M. Burton Rochester, NY Abenaki Tribe |
| Please accept my heartfelt condolensces during this time of senseless loss and tragedy within the Red Lake Nation. The prayers of our nation, and the world, are with you. May you find comfort in memories, and in each other, in the days ahead. With deepest sympathy, Kathleen Saurer, Orange Park, Florida |
| On behalf of the Health Department at the American Indian Community House in New York City, our prayers and deepest sympathy to the Red Lake Community at this time of sorrow. Anthony Hunter, Health Director |
| Red Lake Nation - I send my deepest condolences during this time of tragedy and loss. I pray that our Creator will hold you in His arms offering you the comfort and peace that only He can provide. My heart mourns for your Nation. As a psychotherapist, I have an earnest desire to serve the youth, and am only sorry that Weise was one who had something to express and his venue was one of chaotic destruction. I, like so many others, feel drawn to offer prayer and my counseling services to you. Respecting your decision of solemn seclusion, I quietly await your summons. I continue to keep your Nation in prayer. Trasi Platero Navajo/Apache Colorado |
| U.S. SENATOR MARK DAYTON’S STATEMENT ON RED LAKE SCHOOL SHOOTING March 22, 2005 “My prayers and heartfelt sympathies go out to the victims of yesterday’s shootings, to their families and to the community of Red Lake. I join with all Minnesotans in mourning their losses. I will be traveling to Red Lake as soon as possible, where I will do everything I can to help the Red Lake tribal leaders during this difficult time. This senseless tragedy will forever change the lives of all who endured it. I encourage all Minnesotans to reach out to the families and friends of the victims, and to extend their support to this grieving community, in any way they can.” |
| The entire Red Lake Nation is offered our prayers and love during this time. Bob and Gabby White Parma, OH |
| My heart goes out to the people of the Red Lake Nation. May the creator heal the circle and keep you strong. Mike Wing Mashpee Wampanoag Nation Mashpee, Mass. |
| Dear Red Lake Nation, I' am writing to you because I want to let everyone know that they are in my thoughts and prayers. When I heard what happened on the news I was really shocked for more than one reason. First because this is such a tragic thing to happen to any community. Second because my parents grew up near there-very near there.My Dad grew up in Kelliher . And my Mom grew up in Waskish. And while I was growing up we visited frequently. Because we had family there, and still do. Maybe that is why I'am having a hard time comprehending this all. Because this happened in a small tight knit community. Much like the one I visited as a kid. I hope and pray you are able to work through this. My heart goes out to all of you. Bobbi Jo |
| I cannot express how sad i feel for your loss and the tragedy that has befallen your reservation and it's people.You have had severe hardship and sorrow for over a century but you have risen above it and you will again. My deepest condolences to all on your reservation. The world knows your grief. Patrick Scarry, Shannon Aerport. Ireland. |
| We join you, our Native brothers and sisters, in prayer that peace and harmony will be restored to the community of Red Lake. We mourn with you over the losses of your loved ones. My sister, a teacher, who taught at Riverside in Oklahoma and is now teaching at Peach Springs in Arizona e-mailed one young lady she adored very much. We pray that she is safe and comes through this tragedy. May the Red Lake Nation and its people find comfort in knowing that Native brothers and sisters are with you in spirit and prayer. May the Great Creator be with each of you, especially the faculty, administration, and staff at Red Lake High. God bless – Agatha Yazzie-Spencer Diné College, Tsaile, AZ |
| Your young people and their friends, relatives and all the members of your tribe are in my prayers. God Bless you and keep you. Mike Tierney Burnsville, Minnesota |
| At this time of terrific loss, please know that many, many hearts and prayers are with you. Those of us in the Twin Cities area are wanting to help--please let us know how we can. God Bless, Julie Kelly |
| Dear Webmaster, I have visited several sites looking for an email address, and yours is the first I've found. I chose you, webmaster, because I am not necessarily looking for a newsperson. I just want to extend my love and condolences to the Red Lake community for the great trauma that has visited them in recent days. This troubled boy has touched the lives of millions with his actions. The whole country is reaching out to Red Lake, for the awful shootings and the loss of life and the terrible pain of the survivors and families of the dead. Please know that everyone has your best interest at heart. I hope the media is kind to the families involved. Love and Bright Blessings Barbara Christy Las Vegas, NV |
| My heartfelt condolences to every person who lost a family member or friend in the tragedy. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Susan Knopp Whitehall, Ohio |
| The whole nation weeps with you. Our prayers are with you all. Darryl Starnes Mechanicsville, Virginia |
| I just wanted to extend my condolences to everyone there in the Red Lake area. I am originally from the Baudette, MN/ Rainy River Ont. area, and like a lot of people, was horrified at what I saw on the news. My heart goes out to you all, and please know that you are all in my prayers. Teresa McDowell Gresham, Oregon |
| Know that you all are in the hearts and thoughts of so many across the country, including my husband and myself. You will forever mourn those who have been taken from you, but know that your pain will ease as time goes on. Remember that family and friends are the best support for sorrow as they feel what you feel, they understand it better then anyone. May I wish you for every storm, a rainbow, for every tear, a smile for ever care, a promise and a blessing in each trial. For every problem life sends, a faithful friend to share for every sigh, a sweet song, and an answer to each prayer. Peace and Safe Passage, Sean & Amy Secrest |
| I forgot to include the name, I'm so sorry....Henry Donell Jr., again, I would like to express how sorry I am to hear of this unfortunate happening. I know that Native communities are tight knit and that they reach together when something tragic happens, I was thinking about the politics that Natives have and was thinking to myself, I hope this doesn't take a toll on families affected by this mishap. I am in shock still to see this and hear about it over here in the Northwest, I'm way over here and can't be there to help as I wished I could. I hope that the people of the Red Lake Nation pull together more than they ever have before and pray to their higher power and just take this moment in and be there for one another especially the kids, they are going to need it the most. On a personal note, I lost one of my children before and I hurt everyday, so I just pray that your community can one day be stronger and hold your heads up and over come this pain you all have had to grasp. I'll keep you guys in my thoughts.... Shelly Today I was shocked to read the newspaper of the shootings while checking my email tonight. I'd like to express my condolences to the families involved and to the Native communities throughout the region. While I was looking around on the tribal paper via the internet, I ran across a name I reconized and am hoping to get in touch with. If you could forward this to the person that would be awesome, if you can't could you send it to someone who could? My name is Shelly Butler (Andrews) and I would like to get into contact with Henry as he is a past high school friend from Chemawa Indian School and it has been about 4 or 5 years that we last spoke. My home phone is (541) 336-2986 and it's ok to call there or my work number is 1-800-648-0449x1625 and it is fine to call there too. Or my address is po box 805 Siletz, OR 97380, if he could get in touch that would be great, thank you... Shelly R. Andrews-Butler |
| We just wanted the people of Red Lake to know, that the Kakaygeesick family, the Warroad School District, and The Indian Community of Warroad, will be holding a Traditional Drumand Pipe Healing Ceremony at the school this evening, to show our support for the victims, their families, and the community. It is indeed a dark day for all of us. We feel the pain and sorrow. It has affected all of us here in some way. like other people I have lost a few days of sleep and have shed tears for our children. A Red Lake Band Member |
| I have been following the news of the tragic events that have taken place in your school and community. Please accept and extend my sympathies to your school, community, and all who feel anguish and pain resulting from these devastating acts. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Ron P. Kockelman Past H.S. Principal, Roseau, MN (retired) Green Valley, AZ |
| Dear Mr. Barrett, I have studied history for many years, but until my daughter started reading a book called, "The American Holocaust' for a history class this semester, I was woefully ignorant of the vastness of the horrors of what have been done in the genocide of the Native Americans in two continents. Then this happened. I read your editorial and wept because it is true that the media will move away, but I pray that I and others do not forget. I still grieve for Columbine families. The father of a slain student spoke at a contemporary Christian musical festival a few years back and we relived with him the pain of that moment. I hope this tragedy can be a motivation for me to find ways to make a small effort to alleviate some of the pain of the past and present and future. I'm going to revisit Rich Mullen's web site for the children he loved and taught before he was so quickly take from us. Maybe that way I won't forget. Our prayers and love are with you all, Linda Wills Salinas, California |
| To the families directly & indirectly affected by Monday's tradgedy. I am an enrolled member of White Earth reservation . I am 25yrs old i too have a heavy heart. I was greatly affected by this. I wish to send my prayers out to you guys & too every enrolled member of the Ojibwe. I just we all learn alot from this , its a very loud scream for help. We as a people need to gather together to find a solution to the extensive list of problems. We need to find something for our kids to fall back on. I have two nieces & several young cousins around the same age as these kids.Once again you all have my prayers & wishes for healing Brett Tibbetts \ 25 year old enrolled member of White Earth Band of Ojibwe |
| We will never know what prompted this tragedy, but know that our hearts go out to you all in this terrible time of grief. Our prayers are with you. Chuck Melnick Lectron Industries 979 Lehigh Avenue Union, NJ 07083 (908)687-2626 Fax (908)687-5678 www.lectronindustries.com |
| Dear Members of the Red Lake Nation and the State of Minnesota, There are no words to describe how sad and hurt I feel about your loss. Please know I care and am praying for you. I read about the tragedy and couldn't believe it. I am a White Mountain Apache from Arizona and a member of the Bear and Roadrunner Clan. To my relatives and all those touch by this tragedy, I extend to you my heartfelt condolences and pray that God keeps you strong. To the many youth that were hurt: You are courageous and strong. You are the future of your nation and don't let this define what you are capable and worthy of becoming. Your culture and heritage is a thing of beauty and is to be treasured. I saw a photo on the internet of how three eagles were overhead at a vigil at the state capital. That is comforting and reassuring. It was good to know our ancestors and spiritual ones are near and watching over us at this time of pain and loss. Know the world cares about you, the Red Lake community. Ah shonk! Valarie Lee, Shiprock, NM, Navajo Nation |
| Please know that your tragedy and the bravery of the security officers and the students have touched all our hearts. May God bless and comfort you. Peggy Oba Kansas City, MO |
| In your time of sorrow and may his blessings be bestowed on all of you. GOD bless you ALL! Jerry Allder in Oklahoma City, Ok. |
| Dear Mr. Barrett, I am uncertain where to send this, but I am writing to offer my condolences for the recent shootings at Red Lake High School. My thoughts are with you all. Sincerely, Jacqueline Colson Soldotna, Alaska |
| There are no words to express our sympathy. We cannot make the pain and sorry go away, or bring back those beautiful souls. We can only pray for them and hope you will eventually find peace in your broken hearts. Andrea Delaney Vienna, Virginia |
| Our prayers and sympathys go out to the Red Lake Community and for those who have lost someone so close and dear. Be strong for one another, times will be tough for a while but eventually everyone will over come the tragedy but will not forget. I am still in disbelief and shock over this. Sincerely, The Ben Family-Dine Native Holbrook, AZ |
| My heart aches for all of the people at Red Lake, and in particular, the families of the slain victims. The inexplicable has happened, and I pray that time will soften the pain and grief you are feeling right now. Gwen E. Pote Danbury, CT |
| Please accept my heartfelt condolences for your loss. I can only imagine the loss you are experiencing in your community and in your families. I will keep you in my prayers and carry you in my heart. Best regards, Jutta Riediger Project Coordinator South Puget Intertribal Planning Agency 2970 S.E. Old Olympic Highway Shelton, WA 98584 Tel: (360) 426-3990 Fax: (360) 427-8003 riediger@spipa.org |
| To the Red Lake Tribal Members, I would like to send my deepest and most sincere prayers and thoughts to all of you. Your young man was ill and not responsible for his actions. He was terribly depressed and angry. It is sad in this day and age that young people can't be helped when they have mental illness. My son suicided 9 years ago. He didn't kill anyone else, except the spirits of his family and friends. I know the total desperation that is felt when a son kills himself. The pain is beyong words. Hopefully they are in a better place where they can receive love and understanding from a power greater than ourselves. Peace to all of you, Sharon Donnelly Apple Valley, MN |
| Dear Sir: I'm a blind guy in Florida who lived originally in the midwest. A song came in the night from 2:40 Eastern Time this morning. I pray it's accurate and blesses people. I hear the music in my head as God gives me lyrics. Thanks for your time, etc. Sincerely, David John Fee ATTENTION, RED LAKE Attention, Red Lake, Jesus loves you; We don't understand this nightmare, we're going through with you; Just know, you're not alone; God longs to hold you, He wants you as His own. Daryl and Michelle, longtime couple in your towns; He a policeman, well-known around; your grandson held your life in his hands; Why he took it away, I can't comprehend; And the guard named Derek, the youngest of five; His sister Kathy longs for him to still be alive; He grieved for his 4-year-old daughter; They might be together, that's what consoles her; Attention, Red Lake, Jesus loves you; We don't understand this nightmare, we're going through with you; Just know, you're not alone; God longs to hold you, He wants you as His own. Neeva the teacher, she loved to sing; Gardening and travelling, were also her things; And then the students who she taught; Out of control, they were shot; Thurlene loved to tell a good story; Alicia mothered her siblings, but didn't seek glory; Chanelle played basketball, and did cheerleading; All three popular and smart, from what I've been reading; Duane and Chase, also much loved; They played basketball, now I pray they're up above; And Chase loved his baby boy; Just a few months old, may you know your daddy's joy; Attention, Red Lake, Jesus loves you; We don't understand this nightmare, we're going through with you; Just know, you're not alone; God longs to hold you, He wants you as His own. Then there are the wounded ones, Ryan Lance and Cody; Longing to be held at Bemidji North Country; Jeffrey and Steven, fighting for life in Fargo; Oh I pray that all of you will know; His Word says He can turn an evil thing to good; That's beyond me, but may be understood; It'll probably take time, that seems clear; But while you are healing, we are all near; Attention, Red Lake, Jesus loves you; We don't understand this nightmare, we're going through with you; Just know, you're not alone; God longs to hold you, He wants you as His own. Attention, Red Lake, Jesus loves you. |
| My prayers go out to your nation. May God watch over all of you at this time. Leroy Whitekiller Yakama |
| To the Community of Red Lake: A word of support and a message of condolence as you grieve in private. Please know there are people across America that are praying for your courage and strenth to continue as you cope with this tragedy. Nikki Blundell Orlando, Florida |
| An interest in Native history has led me on a journey that I am incredibly grateful for. Your people have suffered such tremendous losses, and my heart breaks with the news of this recent tragedy. My love and prayers are with your community during this difficult time, and - for all Nations - my prayer is that the future holds much healing, love, tradition and hope. Sincerely, Jennifer Henriksen, Hermosa Beach, California |
| Dear students and staff, Words cannot convey the sorrow but your courage and strength will be the source of healing. Know that there are so many who are praying for you in this time of tragedy. Gary Barnes |
| Last night I was listening to the car radio on my way to a feast at the Chicago Indian Center. I heard of the tragedy that hit you. We prayed for you last night, and continue to pray for you. May the Creator give strength to all at Red Lake. Ina |
| Please except our Condolence to all family, friends and relatives who have suffered a great loss. We will hold special sweats for all who are involved; most of all pray the Creator will carry you through. We Native peoples are a strong people, strong in mind, body and deep spritual beliefs. Toska- Alberta Comedown Tribal Member of The Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, OR & Husband Bruce Bennett of the Ghosthorse family in the State of Washington. |
| I wanted to extend my condolences on your tragedy. I am so sorry for your people. They are in my prayers. Dr. C. Baker |
| My husband and I would like to offer our condolences to the Red Lake community. We worked with a member of your tribe, Richard Kaiser, at the Kickapoo Nation School in Powhattan, KS during the 1983-84 school year. When we heard about the tragedy at your school, we thought about Richard immediately. We did not stay in touch with Richard; if anyone knows how to get in touch with him and can pass on our personal condolences, that would be wonderful. Once again, we would like to express our deepfelt sympathies to the families, the fellow students and staff, and the entire community. Phil Edwards & Gabrielle Bowen Edwards |
| My sincere condolences for the events of the last week- I wish you all peace and the continual ability to maintain your tribal identity in the light of such intense scrutiny. A tribe as strong as yours, that has already endured so much, can only become greater. please let me know if there is anything I can do to help. Sincerely, Alecia Harrington ps. particularly enjoyed the 'bad journalists punished- in china' article on your website:) |
| I watched the press conference on television today, and my heart goes out to the students and their families right now. I would like to send a card expressing my condolences, and I looked on the internet for a website and/or address. Is there one that you are giving out that I can have? |
| May you find healing and peace in the love you have for each other
and the love of your fellow americans. My heart grieves with you. Ayesha Khan Wisconsin |
| I think about the people of Red Lake many times every day.
I feel such grief for your losses and your tragedy. I just want the families to know that their neighbors all over America are thinking of them. We are trying to hold your lost children in our hearts. Very sincerely, Mike Johnston Waukesha, Wisconsin |
| Mr Barrett,
I'd like to express my sincere condolences to your tribe and the other citizens in your community who experienced the worse thing imaginable early this week. No one knows what that is like except one who has experienced it. However, it seems it would be searing pain and grinding loss and feelings of unreality together with the grieving. I have worked in a school system as a crisis center person when there was several runs of suicide contagion and know how that effected everyone in the community (Plano, TX). The healing took years until the community could slip into denial again. Is there a fund started for the funerals or counseling or for the families? Please let me know because I would like to contribute. I will pray that you will find comfort and guidance in the old ways as the pain begins to wear off and reality sets in. Warm regards, Barbara Barbara Mathews Blanton MSN, RN, CARN Assistant Clinical Professor (ret) Texas Woman's University College of Nursing Phone 214-704 9838 Email barbara@airmail.net |
| Red Lake community,
My heart goes out to each of you as you deal with this tradegy. May you gain strength from your own and knowing that many others care about you and your needs. Judy Thief River Falls, MN |
| To the People of Red Lake:
Mitakuyepi (My Relatives): I write this on behalf of the Takini Network. We are a Native non-profit organization that developed historical trauma theory and intervention for Native peoples. Takini is a Lakota word meaning survivor or to come back to life, to be reborn. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of you at this time. We know that you have your own ways of grieving and healing at this time and we want to respect that. However, we just wanted to share our pain and sorrow at your losses and we remember you in our prayers. On a personal note, I am a mother of a 19 year old daughter and, although we were living in South Dakota more recently, we were living in Denver at the time of the Columbine shootings. The following day, other schools received a threat and my daughter's school went into lockdown. They did call me to let me know I could come and pick her up and needless to say, I rushed there in a panic. My impulse was to drive us immediately out of state, back to SD where I thought she would be safe. I knew however on some level that no place is safe from the violence, suicide, substance abuse that plagues our communities everywhere. I became even more committed to the work on historical trauma which I see as the root cause of all of this - trauma that gets passed on from generation to generation and began working harder on historical trauma healing not only for adults but for parents to help them improve their relationships with their children and increase their children's resistance to substance abuse and mental health problems. We have had success in South Dakota with our parenting work and have begun that work nationally. Our prayers and our beliefs are that all of our Native Peoples will heal. Again, our hearts and prayers are with you. You are our relatives. Mitakuye Oyasin (We are all related), Maria Yellow Horse Brave Heart, PhD President/Director, The Takini Network, Inc. (303) 759-0975 |
| Dear People of the Red Lake Tribe,
I extend my sympathy to all suffering from the tragedy that has befallen your people. The real tragedy is the continual injustices served upon the indigenous peoples of this continent that began hundreds of years ago. I do wish that would cease. Be well and strong. Peter |
| I just wanted to offer my deepest condolences to the victims, families
of loved ones lost, and to the entire membership of Red Lake. I was shocked and deeply saddened about the events that unfolded in your community on Monday. I can understand how such an incident can affect a close-knit community such as yours, however, I cannot imagine the pain that you all are feeling at this time. My prayers and thoughts are with all of you every day. God bless you all. Pam Blood Kainai (Blood Tribe) Standoff, Alberta, Canada |
| Our thoughts and prayers are with all of the families who have lost loved ones and with the Red Lake Nation at this time of tragedy.
Pamela McElwain-Brown and Donner Brown Eden Prairie, MN |
| I was so sad to hear the news about your tragedy. I am only small part Chippewa but very proud of the connection as you can see by my email address for over ten years. You are a strong people and will survive this and maybe show us all how its done with dignity. There are no words to comfort except maybe that a lot of us out here are thinking about you and wish we could help.
GINNY GUYMON KANSAS CITY MO |
| Our thoughts and prayers are with you, all over the island, all over
the world. Thanks, Trevor J Osgood |
| I have followed the events of the Red Lake High School tragedy through the national news and Red Lake Net News. I am a teacher who for thirty years have felt very close to my students, parents, and community, and I feel a great deal of sorrow for the students, parents, school staff, and residents of the Red Lake Indian Reservation. May the creator bless you and may healing come swiftly to the children and the people of your reservation.
Al Walker Rock Springs, Wyoming |
| Dear Red Lake Students, Staff, and Red Lake Tribe
I reach out to you in your loss and sorrow. Know the country is aware of your pain and reaches out to you. Sincerely, Mary Friedel-Hunt |
| To Red Lake First Nation:
My thoughts and prayers are with your community at this very difficult time. In sympathy, Ann Stewart Cambridge, Masachusetts |
| Dear People of the Red Lake Band,
My heart aches in sorrow for the terrible tragedy at your school. I send my condolences and hope that all of you touched by the horror of violence will have your spirits healed in time. When I was a young man in 1972, I was hitchhiking through Minnesota on my way to Canada and two young men from Red Lake not only gave my friend and me a ride, but invited us to eat and sleep at their home. This kindness and generosity is etched in my heart and will never be forgotten. Bill James Indian River, Ontario, Canada |
| To The People,
I offer my sincere condolences in this tragic time. May all who have been touched by this tragedy find strength and comfort in the thoughts and prayers being sent to you from all over the world. May The Creator embrace you all. All my relations, Krissie Red Hendersonville, NC |
| To The People,
I offer my sincere condolences in this tragic time. May all who have been touched by this tragedy find strength and comfort in the thoughts and prayers being sent to you from all over the world. May The Creator embrace you all. All my relations, Krissie Red Hendersonville, NC |
| To the tribe of Red Lake, I grew up among the Suquamish people of the Pacific Northwest. Although I live in Georgia now. The tribe will always be a part of who I am. My heart breaks as it would for the Suquamish tribe. If anything like this happened. I hope people outside the tribe will soon respect your healing time. -J. Snell |
| Our hearts ache for your losses. The tears are flowing. Red Lake and its people remain in our thoughts and prayers now, and in the difficult days ahead. May you be comforted by the memories you have of your loved ones. The communities and towns in Minnesota, and the country feel your pain. We will never forget. Mayor Brad and Cindy Walhof Walker, MN |
| To: Michael Barret I would like to help you community by donating and any other way needed. Where should I donate to? I want to ensure the money will be sent directly to your community. Thinking of your community... Amanda Cornwell |
| I would like to extend my condolences to all the parents who lost children as a result of the tragedy on March 21, 2005. I too lost a child, not under these circumstances, and a parent's grief is never forgotten. At times like this we all wonder "WHY" when they were young and had so much to live for. There is a song Elton John sings that says: "Only the good Die young", but their lives could have made differences the world will never see. Why to people buy guns? We are not in a world where these are necessary. Why don't lawmakers control the sale of firearms? Why do people feel they have the right to take someone's life into their hands, when that is the right that only GOD should have? Young men and women in Washington, DC take the lives of people every day. Today there were 3 shootings and in one instance a 9 year old innocent boy was shot in the head and died. We are all people of GOD and should respect the lives of others. My heart goes out to all the parents, siblings, family members, and tribe experiencing this grief. May we continue to pray for the world to have more love, less hate, and belief that there is a GOD for all of us. |
| Mr. Barrett, I’m contacting you because yours is the first email address I was able locate. If you can, please give the members of the Red Lake Nation my deepest sympathies. I was heart broken to hear about the horrible event that happened. The families impacted, and the entire Red Lake Nation are in my prayers. I know that no words will remove the pain, but I hope that somehow, in the future some good will come out of this tragedy. Michael A. Pease |
| To the People of Red Lake Nation, I cannot describe how I have been feeling this past week, although I know I cannot begin to imagine how you all are feeling. I am devastated at what has happened and with the way some in the media are portraying the Chippewa and your community. I hope they will soon grant you the peace to mourn those that have been lost. My name is Katrina Branchaud and my grandfather, Valerian, was born at Red Lake and has taught me to have great pride in my heritage. I am constantly trying to take his lessons further and learn more of my heritage. I know I am not a part of your community, but the blood of the Anishinaabe flows through my veins and within my heart, and although I may be thousands of miles away, I have endured much grief and pain over this tragedy. I wish there was something that I could do. Please know that the thoughts of the Branchauds down here in Virginia have been with all of you this past week. We are with you in spirit. My thoughts and sympathy go out the families of those who have gone on, with those still recovering from injuries, and with everyone in the community because I know your hearts will take time to heal. Gi zah gin Katrina Branchaud Suffolk and Richmond, Virginia |
| Hi, I'm not sure who to write, but I wanted to express my sorrow for the events that took place at Red Lake. What took place is unimaginable and it is terrible that your students had to experience it. On a more partisan note, I am appalled that President Bush has not responded immediately to the shootings. After Columbine, President Clinton responded several hours after they took place; it is terrible that one school shooting seems to merit a president's attention while an equally horrific one several years later is ignored. I don't mean to turn the event into a political criticism, but I hope that he wakes up and addresses what took place. Stay strong; all the members of your community are in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Zoe Galland New York, NY |
| Mike, I'm sorry to hear about whats going on back home. I'm not able to take leave for the funerals, but do know that me and my squadron here has Red Lake in their prayers. Thanks for keeping us all up to date on whats going on. Respectfully, Tashina LeRae Berg-Jose |
| Most sincere condolences to the Red Lake Chippewa people in their time of mourning. My prayers, and the prayers of my family are with you all, as are the prayers and thoughts of so many caring people from all over the world. Your community is full of good strong, people, and I am sure that you will all come together, and support each other through the difficult times of grieving. We hope for comfort to come, as best it can, for the families, loved ones, and friends of those lost, and for the community as a whole, and for a swift recovery for those who have been injured in this terrible tragedy. Most Sincerely, Elizabeth Kramer Freeport, New York. |
| I hope this can be forwarded to whom it needs to go to. I wanted to let your Tribe and community know that many people here have you in our prayers. As a mother and grandmother, my heart goes out to all of you. As a Native American, I know the strength we possess will always guide us in the worst of times. May God Bless the families and friends of all of you. Juanita Thomas Mechoopda Indian Tribe 125 Mission Ranch Blvd. Chico, Ca 95926 |
| My condolences go out to your community over this tragedy. As I read an article today on MSNBC news “Native Americans Criticize Bush’s silence” I became very upset by the president’s lack of sensitivity. I just wanted to say to your disappointed community that I feel as disgusted as they are. I was severely disappointed in his reappointment as president and this only confirms that disappointment. He may remain Commander-in-Chief but he is only one man in a nation of many. Personally, I have familiarity with the heartache of losing a loved one. I wanted to say to those in mourning that they are not alone. I wrote this poem for them. What you face today I am sorry to say Might be the greatest tragedy ever But, tomorrow will bring Sunshine and happy things If a soul can live past the sorrow This nation has heard your cry We have not turned you a blind eye I know my pain for you is but a shower I just wanted you to know After a storm flowers grow And some will stay to weed your garden My sincerest wishes that the community will heal again are with you. Sincerely, Janean E. Las Vegas, Nevada |
| Please know that my family and I grieve with all of you. No need for you to answer. Blessings. Robert L. Cole Janice Rae Cole Frank Cole Jonathan Cole 5765 Lewis Wilson Road Wamego, Kansas 66547 |
| My sympathy reaches out to all people of the Red Lake. My grandmother and father are members of the White Earth, so it is felt especially deep here. All of you take care of each other. Jeff Hewitt Account Manager Redwood Empire; Morgan Hill Division |
| To all of you in The Red Lake Nation, My thoughts & prayers are with all of you! This is a sad & unexplained event. My heart is broken from this news,as a daughter of a CROW father, i am very shocked this has hit the Nation. Our people have been so loving, and healing as a whole, the shame of this can not be allowed to be promoted. I pray you'll will come away from this with a stronger, and more aware of the outside internet dealings the children are involved with. Become more involved with the young, use your knowledge, speak openly with each other.............children to adults, adults to children, let all fears, problems, and any UNKNOWN be discussed, the more we talk together the less the outside interfears in our world. Be safe, Lydia Crow Taylor, Statesville, NC |
| Please accept my condolences for the tragedy that has befallen the Red Lake Nation. See the letter that I wrote to President Bush. I apologize for his behavior. Dear Mr. President, I feel compelled as an American and a human being to express my profound disappointment at your silence toward Native Americans at Red Lake, Minnesota regarding their terrible tragedy, described as the darkest day in the history of their Nation. You were quick to let our country know that you demanded to be awakened in the middle of the night to sign Terri Schiavo legislation. You have not even made a single public comment about the 15 lives taken prematurely and tragically. I am embarrassed. Sincerely, Cheryl A. Kassed, Ph.D., M.S.P.H. 2208 Parker Avenue Wheaton, MD 20902 |
| To the Red Lake Band of Chippewa, So very sorry for your loss of so many lives... I hope you all find strength in each other and from those who send you their prayers and thoughts. Andrea Hilsen Minnetonka, MN |
| As a former Bemidji resident I have such fond memories of members of the Red Lake band of Chippewa bringing cultural gifts to us at school. They opened my eyes and heart to a world I can still see through the concrete of the city I now live in. When I heard the news my heart broke. God be with you, and God help us all. This tragedy did not begin and does not end at the border of the reservation. May we all find strength to be more just, more kind, more truthful, more respectful, less greedy, and thereby more human. Name Withheld |
| Please share this letter with Red Lake Nation Tribal Police. My name is Leanna Charlton. I live in Tucson, Arizona and am a police sergeant here. I am not a reporter. I first heard of the Red Lake tradgedy trough my sister in Tucson. Then, calls came to me from my family in Turtle Lake Wisconsin, as well at St Croix Falls, and Minneapolis. I felt helpless. I am not a member of the Red Lake Nation, but my blood is Anishinaabe through my father and grandmother. I contacted the PD expressing my condolences and offering to put my own extensive law enforcement training to use. I contacted the FBI, and I contacted tribal headquarters. Well aware, that my phone call was one of most likely thousands, I re-contacted Red Lake PD asking about funeral arrangements for the slain Police Sergeant and whether or not a law enforcement honor guard would be posted. I received permission from my agency to represent the agency in honoring Sgt Lussier. I know that you are overwhelmed. I honor the Red Lake Nation and the way in which you have handled this event. I watched other nations in Southern Arizona gather for healing ceremonies and have participated in these, but it does not fit. I imagine now, that it does not fit for you either. This is not comfortable. It just isn't, whether you are in Arizona, Ontario, St. Croix or Red Lake. Faith in a Great Spirit is not easy and time is also part of healing. I know that prayers and ritual, sweats and meditation are the way to be present for you in grief, but I feel a special connection to the Red Lake Nation and I have discovered an unexpected grief in myself. This will heal in time as you will heal, but I will not be able to fully participate in healing without being pysically present at some time in the future. I began to learn the Red Lake Ojibwe dialect through Rick Gresczyk (Gwayakogaabo) and Margaret Sayers (Awasigiizhigok) last summer and am pursuing a BA in "Sustainable Communities." My interest in learning the dialect came as a desire to speak my own language at my wedding. Since that time, I have learned that I have a much deeper connection than I ever thought. The purpose of my letter is this: I am sorry to have apparently contributed to the overwhelming onslaught of info-seekers. I did not want to show up only to be part of the problem, so I sought an invitation. As A Law Enforcement Professional, I should have known better. I can manage a herendous and complicated situation in the course of my job, but have learned that when it comes to my own family, professional standards take a back seat. I can imagine how difficult this was and is for all of you. I honor your privacy. Another purpose of my leter is this: Your blood is in the hearts of many of us all over. What happens to you, happens to the rest of us. What we choose, we choose for all of us. You (The Red Lake Nation) are in my heart. Ayaangwaamizin. Leanna Nelsen Charlton |
| I would like to let you know that I am praying for your community, and I know how hard it is on everyone. Things like this are hard to understand, and in the end you still never really do. My tragedies are a little different but the pain is always the same. My half-brother was shot and killed by some boys who were his "friends" on the day of his 19th birthday. And exactly a week before my brother raped and murdered his 12 year old niece. In a small community things like that are not supposed to happen, and especcially not in your family. Just give your kids' lots of hugs and love, because they will get you through this, I think God for my little girls'. I hope and pray that everyone there will come through alright. Stephanie, Arkansas |
| To all the victims and their families, and our families, nieces, nephews and extended families. Our deepest condolences. You are all in our prayers. Pam Long, Paul, Vincent and Crystal Kaiser Colorado |
| I know I speak for many who live in Colorado, our hearts are broken to see something like this happen yet again. I wanted to extend my heartfelt condolenses. T. Takahashi - Denver I just wish to extend my heartfelt condolenses to one and all. |